ANIMAL Aid is appealing to thousands of businesses around Britain to show their compassion for animals by pledging not to organise an office sweepstake/syndicate for the next Grand National horse race.

Horse racing is a brutal business that costs lives. Four horses died during last year's three-day Grand National event two in the main race and this is just a fraction of the cruelty involved.

Very few horses ever make it to events like the National in fact half of the 8,000 foals bred annually are shot or otherwise disposed of because they fail to "make the grade." Of those who do, some 300 are raced to death every year. They fall and break their back, neck, leg, or suffer a heart attack.

Others incur injury while training or during the course of the season are deemed no longer profitable and killed.

Horses at the end of their career are unlikely to enjoy a happy retirement. Many are slaughtered for pet food or sold to continental abattoirs. Others endure a downward spiral of neglect.

Still not convinced? You'll find more information on our website. Businesses willing to make a stand for animals by signing Animal Aid's pledge should visit www.animalaid.org.uk/horses. All signatories to this "roll of honour" will be made public to highlight their commitment to animal welfare, and will receive a special certificate. If anyone would like further information, please email us at info@animalaid.org.uk marking your email "horses, or call 01732 364546.

Andrew Tyler

Animal Aid

Tonbridge

Kent

January 24, 2003 11:00